Dog Welfare Campaigns

Finding your lost dog

To give you the greatest chance of finding your dog should he or she go astray, act fast - and don't panic!

Spend at least 15-30 minutes calling and whistling for your dog - and try to sound cheerful. Circle the location in which the dog was last seen, but try not to leave the immediate area at first. Make your circles wider and wider before you eventually do leave, making sure you ask everyone you pass if they've seen your pet. Give those who seem helpful and trustworthy your number or your vet's number.

Canvas the neighbourhood in which your dog was lost, moving from door to door with information. It's not unusual for Dogs afraid of thunder, for example, to escape their homes or gardens and settle calmly in the garden or garage of a neighbour.

Walk or cycle up and down the roads nearest the area your dog was last seen. People strolling or cycling nearby are another helpful resource for spotting your animal. Bring along a favourite treat.

Prepare a flyer with relevant information about your dog, including the name and physical description. Contact information should include your name, telephone number and email address. If possible, include a photograph and have these photocopied. Post and distribute flyers wherever your dog was last seen, as well as throughout your home neighbourhood and to any rescue services you contact.

Call local vets with a description of your dog and contact information. Then follow this up with a visit, or drop in letters with a picture of your dog. It may also help if you then ring them every few days. Your dog may be injured and is likely to be taken to a vet in the area.

Contact the local council, police and animal control authorities with a description and the time and area in which your dog was lost. They will be the ones who will be contacted if your pet has been in a car accident, for example.

Offer a reward for any information leading to your dog's safe return. Even indirect information from someone who spotted a dog with your pet's colouring can be very helpful. Although many dog lovers will refuse a monetary reward, some people seem to find their best inspiration through the prospect of a reward! If you have pet insurance, check whether it includes cover for the costs of creating missing notices and offering a reward.

Take advantage of the lost and found ads in your local newspaper. Place a 'lost dog' ad as soon as possible, and be sure to check the column daily for any that have been found.

Contact organisationsMany lost pets are also taken to local shelters. In addition, some other organisations can be a great help in locating lost pets When you get in touch with any organisation, make sure you have the following details to hand: colour, age, size, temperament, identification on the dog (collar, tag, microchip, where the dog was lost), and your details.